What is Gerd?

Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is a disease caused by dysfunction of the valve between the esophagus and stomach.

If the valve does not function properly, stomach acid can flow back into the esophagus and cause damage to the esophageal lining.

GERD is common, affecting 44% of U.S. adults every month and nearly 18% of U.S. adults every week.1 GERD is typically a very treatable disease, but many people do not know they have it because its symptoms are associated with numerous other conditions.

SYMPTOMS OF GERD2,3

Chronic heartburn

Regurgitation

Chest pain or discomfort

Chronic cough, sore throat and/or hoarseness

Sleeping disturbances and nighttime symptoms

Belching, gas and bloating

Nausea

Intolerance of certain foods

When diagnosis and treatment are delayed, chronic GERD can increase the risk for serious health complications, including Barrett’s esophagus and esophageal cancer.4 About 13% of Causcasian men over the age of 50 who have chronic reflux will develop Barrett’s esophagus.5